In what’s been a rookie season that’s seen moments of brilliance for the San Antonio Spurs, Stephon Castle was coming off what may have been his worst stretch as a pro. It was easily his most pedestrian stint since his first week in the NBA
The national champion with the UConn Huskies headed into a New Year’s Eve game vs. the Los Angeles Clippers off only the second scoreless performance of his young career. Castle responded to that outing in Minneapolis and the two directly before in which he scored just six points apiece, with 15 vs. LA. He started the second half in place of Jeremy Sochan who exited the game with what was labeled a low back issue.
“I thought it was a very mature response to what happened in Minnesota,” acting head coach Mitch Johnson said of his combo guard. “I thought he looked great, but just in general, even before that, very happy with his response to seven minutes in a rough patch in Minnesota.”
“Not surprised, but very pleased,” Johnson concluded.
It’s become a Spurs mantra, and Castle appears to fit right in.
“Having a short-term memory, whether it’s a good game or a bad game,” the 20-year-old stated.
Long known as an organization that maintains an even keel, the Silver and Black – under the direction of Hall-of-Famer Gregg Popovich for two and half decades – have stressed the importance of understanding bigger pictures.
“You’re going to be on guys’ scouting reports, so people are going to guard you certain ways,” Castle continued. “Sometimes it’s not going to be your night. Sometimes you’re going to play, sometimes you’re not. Staying ready is a skill you’ve got to have in the NBA.”
